Top Revenue Cycle Management Trends of 2025: Patient Access and Claim Management Lead the Way
In the ever-evolving world of healthcare, technology continues to play a pivotal role in addressing industry challenges and improving operational efficiency. According to a recent survey conducted by Waystar, a leading healthcare payment software provider, 92% of healthcare industry leaders have identified AI and advanced automation as key priorities for overcoming RCM (Revenue Cycle Management) hurdles. Two specific functions within RCM have emerged as the top areas for automation investment: Patient Access and Claim Management.
Patient Access
Patient access refers to the process of scheduling appointments, managing patient information, and facilitating communication between patients and healthcare providers. According to the survey, 75% of healthcare leaders plan to invest in automation for patient access functions. This investment is expected to streamline the patient registration process, reduce administrative burden, and improve patient satisfaction.
Automation of patient access functions can be achieved through various means, including:
- Online appointment scheduling
- Automated patient communication
- Electronic health record (EHR) integration
- Self-service patient portals
These automation tools can help reduce the administrative burden on healthcare staff, minimize errors, and provide patients with a more convenient and personalized experience.
Claim Management
Claim management involves the processing and submission of insurance claims, as well as the follow-up and resolution of any denied or underpaid claims. The survey revealed that 78% of healthcare leaders plan to invest in automation for claim management functions. This investment is expected to reduce claim processing time, minimize errors, and improve cash flow.
Automation of claim management functions can be achieved through various means, including:
- Electronic claims submission
- Automated claim status tracking
- AI-powered claim adjudication
- Real-time eligibility verification
These automation tools can help reduce the time and effort required to process claims, minimize errors, and ensure accurate and timely reimbursement.
Impact on Individuals
The automation of patient access and claim management functions will have a significant impact on individuals interacting with the healthcare system. Patients will be able to schedule appointments more easily, receive automated reminders and communications, and access their health information through self-service portals. Claim processing will be faster and more accurate, reducing the need for manual follow-up and minimizing out-of-pocket expenses.
Impact on the World
The adoption of AI and automation in patient access and claim management functions is expected to bring about numerous benefits for the healthcare industry as a whole. These benefits include:
- Improved operational efficiency
- Reduced administrative burden
- Minimized errors
- Enhanced patient satisfaction
- Improved cash flow
Moreover, the automation of routine tasks will free up healthcare staff to focus on more complex and high-value tasks, leading to better patient care and outcomes. The use of AI and machine learning algorithms in claim adjudication and patient risk assessment will also lead to more accurate and personalized care.
Conclusion
The adoption of AI and advanced automation in patient access and claim management functions is set to transform the healthcare industry in 2025 and beyond. By reducing administrative burden, minimizing errors, and improving operational efficiency, healthcare providers can focus on delivering high-quality, personalized care to their patients. Individuals will benefit from a more convenient and streamlined healthcare experience, with faster claim processing and easier access to health information. The future of healthcare is automated, and the benefits are far-reaching and exciting.
Sources:
- Waystar. (2025). Press Release: Waystar Reveals Top RCM Trends of 2025. Retrieved from
- Healthcare IT News. (2025). Top 5 RCM Trends for 2025. Retrieved from
